Short answer: In 2026, a custom gunite pool in Dallas–Fort Worth starts around $75,000 with a quality builder, and most complete backyards with a spa and outdoor living run $100,000 to $200,000. In dry weather, most pools take about 6 to 8 weeks of construction, and permits usually take 1 to 3 weeks.
Why pool prices are higher than a few years ago
If you priced a pool before 2022, today's numbers can be a surprise. The increase isn't one thing; it's nearly every input going up at once.
- Concrete, gunite and steel. The shell is concrete over a steel cage, and both cost more than they used to.
- Equipment. Pump, filter, heater, salt system, lighting and automation packages that ran $8,000–$12,000 a few years ago now commonly run $10,000–$15,000 or more.
- Skilled labor. Experienced tile setters, stone masons, electricians and plumbers are in demand across DFW.
- Fuel and delivery. Every truckload of material, from gunite to decking stone, costs more to move.
What this means for your budget
A custom gunite pool that started in the mid-$60,000s two years ago now starts closer to $75,000 for similar scope and finishes. A pool with a spa, water features and a covered patio or kitchen typically lands between $100,000 and $200,000. Our pricing guide breaks down what moves the number.
The market has cooled, and that helps buyers
New pool construction in Texas has slowed for three years in a row. Pool Magazine reported that residential pool permits in Texas fell again in 2025 (source). Fewer projects means good builders have more open slots, crews aren't stretched as thin, and schedules are easier to plan than during the 2021–2022 rush.
Permit timelines
In the DFW cities we build in, permits usually take 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the city, the time of year and whether HOA review is needed first. We submit as soon as the design is approved and track it through.
Does a pool still make sense in 2026?
For most of our clients, the decision isn't about resale value; it's about how they want to live. A well-designed backyard gets used nine or ten months a year in North Texas, for everyday swims, weekend cookouts and evenings around the fire. Buy it for the life it gives you, and design it well enough that it adds appeal when you eventually sell.
When to start
If you want to swim next summer, start the design in the fall or winter. That leaves time for design, HOA review and permitting before a spring build. See the best time of year to build.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pool cost in Dallas in 2026?
With a custom builder, gunite pools start around $75,000. Projects with a spa and outdoor living typically run $100,000 to $200,000.
Are pool prices going to come down?
Material, equipment and labor costs haven't fallen, so we don't expect prices to drop meaningfully. What has improved is builder availability.
How long does it take to get a pool permit in DFW?
Usually 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the city, the season and whether HOA approval is needed first.
Written by Jesus Arias, founder of Ridge Outdoor Living, a custom pool and outdoor living builder in Dallas–Fort Worth. Figures are typical ranges from our projects and are a guide, not a quote.